The recent interview with Cisco was deeply disheartening. Despite my upfront disclosure about my limited expertise, the interviewer persistently grilled me on unfamiliar technologies, displaying a dismissive attitude throughout. His subsequent rejection felt deliberate and demeaning, serving as a stark reminder of the power dynamics at play in corporate environments. This experience has solidified my decision never to reapply to Cisco. I refuse to subject myself to such disrespect again and would rather face unemployment than compromise my self-worth in a toxic workplace culture.
Moving forward, I am determined to seek employment opportunities where mutual respect and professionalism are valued. While the rejection from Cisco stings, it has also provided clarity on the type of workplace environment I wish to be a part of. I am committed to finding a role where my skills and contributions are appreciated, fostering a positive and supportive professional atmosphere conducive to growth and success.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
linux kernel settings, restAPI, Coading Java, python, kubernets,
I applied online. The process took 4 weeks. I interviewed at Cisco in Jan 2026
Interview
The interview process consistes of 5 interviews. First was a short 10-15 min recruiter call basically explaining the role and what to expect, after that there will be 2 technical interview and 2 soft skills.
I applied through other source. The process took 2 months. I interviewed at Cisco
Interview
1- HR call to discuss the role and general information (salary, next interviews and overall process). They also ask basic networking concepts (VLAN, DHCP, STP)
2- Technical interview: PC A has no connectivity to Google, troubleshoot the network to find the issue. (Damaged cables, switch issues, VLANs, Trunk ports, ACLs, Router configuration)
3- Technical interview (harder): PC A has no connection to LAN or WAN. Test communication in LAN and verify Switch configuration (STP, VLAN access and trunk ports), DHCP troubleshooting, Router configuration, find Rougue DHCP.
4- Two more interviews to test your software skills.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
How does router on a stick works?
How do you solve a VLAN mismatch?
How does STP works and how you can assure is configured?
I applied online. The process took 1 week. I interviewed at Cisco (Ciudad de Mexico) in Aug 2025
Interview
La entrevista fue larga y muy técnica, con bastantes conceptos de redes que pusieron a prueba mis conocimientos. Se notó claramente que buscan a alguien con experiencia práctica en entornos reales. Además, para poder superarlas con seguridad, es casi indispensable contar con la certificación CCNA y dominar sus fundamentos.